The Hebrew word nâgach, represented by H5055, is a primitive root that means to butt with the horns. It appears 11 times across 10 unique verses in the Bible. While its base meaning is a physical act, it is figuratively used to describe warring against an opponent and is translated as gore or push (down, -ing).
In the biblical narrative, H5055 is used in both literal and figurative contexts. Its literal application is found in legal codes, where it describes an ox H7794 that may gore a man or a woman Exodus 21:28 or push a servant Exodus 21:32. Figuratively, the term is a powerful metaphor for military conflict and conquest. It is used to describe how Israel will push down its enemies through God's power Psalms 44:5. This imagery is also central to prophecy, as when Zedekiah makes iron horns H7161 to symbolize pushing the Syrians to their destruction 1 Kings 22:11 and in Daniel's vision of a ram pushing in all directions, unopposed Daniel 8:4.
Several related words help define the context and impact of this aggressive action:
- H7161 qeren (horn): This is the instrument used for the action of H5055. It is used metaphorically as the horn of salvation Psalms 18:2 and literally in the prophecy where iron horns are made to represent the act of pushing Syria until it is consumed 1 Kings 22:11.
- H7794 shôwr (ox, bullock): This is the animal most directly associated with the literal act of goring. The law in Exodus specifies the consequences if an ox gores a person Exodus 21:28 or pushes a servant Exodus 21:32, grounding the word in agricultural and legal reality.
- H1920 hâdaph (to push away or down): This verb, meaning to thrust or drive away, is used in conjunction with H5055 to intensify the description of an attack. The corrupt leaders of Israel are condemned because they thrust with side and shoulder and pushed the weak with their horns Ezekiel 34:21.
The theological and metaphorical weight of H5055 is significant, moving from a physical act to a symbol of power and judgment.
- Legal Accountability: The word is foundational in the Law of Moses for establishing responsibility. The detailed rules for an ox that gores a person establish a clear principle of accountability for the actions of one's property (Exodus 21:28, Exodus 21:31).
- Metaphor for Warfare: H5055 consistently serves as a metaphor for military conquest. Israel expresses its trust that God will enable them to push down their enemies H6862 Psalms 44:5, and prophetic visions use the term to describe conflicts between kings Daniel 11:40.
- Symbol of Dominion and Power: The act of pushing symbolizes national strength and divinely-ordained dominion. In the blessing on Joseph's descendants, their power is compared to the horns of unicorns H7214, with which they will push the people together Deuteronomy 33:17. This illustrates a nation's ability to exert its will.
In summary, H5055 is more than a simple verb of action. It begins as a concrete term for an animal goring with its horns and evolves into a potent biblical symbol. It carries the weight of legal responsibility in the Torah and serves as a vivid metaphor for military force, national dominance, and the execution of power in both historical and prophetic contexts.
TRV